|
The great lake dominates Cambodia and extensively over 150 Km in length. Here bird life is profuse, and from the middle of the lake one cannot even see the shores. There is a great stillness and tranquility as we pass floating fishing villages. |
|
Day 1: SIEM REAP - TONLE LAKE
During High water level, approximately July to November, we register at 11:00 at Angkor Palace Hotel to transfer to the ship at Siem Reap Port. Embark the ship at 13:00 and lunch onboard. Cross the Tonle Lake in the afternoon and drop anchor after sunset at the edge of the Great Lake.
During low water level, approximately November to July, register at 11:00 at Angkor palace Hotel to transfer via coach to Preak Kdam on the Tonle River. Enjoy a light lunch and cold drinks on the way with a stop in Kampong Thom. Arrive by 16:00 and cruise to kampong Chhanang for overnight mooring.
Day 2: KAMPONG CHHNANG - KAMPONG CHAM
Kampong Chhanang is a bustling rural port town with busy markets. Mooring mid-stream, we make a truly wonderful motor excursion into the lakeside wetlands that form the mouth of the river. Here a stunning variety of birdlife may be seen and of considerable interest are the great fish traps, some half a kilometer long, which nets a huge tonnage of fish after each monsoon as the fish migrate from the falling lake into the Tonle River. We wind our way through jungle, and as the river narrows we feel we can almost reach out and touch the houses and people who come out to cheer our ship on. Temples abound along the riverbanks, and we see the rich tapestry of Cambodian rural life. We touch the capital of Phnom Penh in the afternoon, change pilots and enter the Upper Mekong bound for Kampong Cham and stop for an afternoon walk at a rural village. Moor overnight bid-stream in Kampong Cham.
Day 3: WAT HANCHEY - PHNOM PENH
Morning journey upriver to the hilltop pre-Angkorian temple of Wat Hanchey. Dating from the 8th century, these ancient brick structures characterize the architecture of the Chenla Empire, which predated the glories of Angkor. Sail back downstream over lunch for an exploration of the Kampong Cham Area. We travel by bus to the 12th century Angkorian temple of Wat Nokor. This colorful temple is unique in Cambodia, as a modern Wat it is set within the ruins of an ancient temple. We continue to the eco village of Cheungkok. We depart late in the afternoon from Kampong Cham and head for Phnom Penh. Overnight mid-stream in Phnom Penh.
Day 4: PHNOM PENH
Early morning cruise into Phnom Penh and dock at the passenger port terminal. The capital of Cambodia retains its French charm. The old colonial architecture makes an attractive backdrop to busy cafes, and the renovated river "corniche" is full of life. The city has several impressive Wat's, including Wat Ounalom, Wat Phnom and the newly painted Wat Lang Ka. Visit the Royal Palace, the spectacular Silver Pagoda, one of the few places in Cambodia where the Khmer Rouge preserved artifacts embodying the brilliance and richness of Khmer culture. The National Museum is another highlight, with outstanding displays of Khmer crafts. An afternoon excursion is arranged to the Killing Fields and the Khmer Rouge’s grim Tuol Sleng or S21 detention centre situated in the suburbs of the city. On a happier note, Phnom Penh has a vibrant Nightlife and same customers chose to dine in one of the many top restaurants or try one of the capitals many watering holes, which are conveniently located along the riverfront. End of tour.
|
|
INCLUSIONS:
-Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle with driver
-Meal as mentioned: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner
-Accommodation: twin sharing room at mentioned hotel or similar one
-English or French speaking guide
-Domestic flight Phnom Penh - Siem Reap
-Entrance fee to indicated sights
-Boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake
-Biking equipment
EXCLUSIONS:
-Airport tax, single room supplement
-Personal expenses
-Travel insurance
-Visa, flight in/ out of Cambodia
-Any optional additional tours or activities during free time
-Other meals not mentioned above
-Tips and Drinks
-Surcharge for peak season, local holiday days and gala dinner
|